Father Mike Schmitz hosts The Bible in a Year podcast, reading from The Bible using the Revised Standard Version, Second Catholic Edition and The Great Adventure Bible from Ascension Press. This is day 103 of the systematic journey through Scripture following The Great Adventure Bible timeline.

Today's reading covers John chapters 13-15, focusing on Jesus's Last Supper teachings including the washing of disciples' feet, His betrayal by Judas, Peter's predicted denial, and the promise of the Holy Spirit. The session also includes Proverbs 6:6-11 about learning diligence from ants.

Father Mike provides theological reflection on the intimate yet hidden nature of Judas's betrayal, the significance of Jesus as the "first consoler" before the Holy Spirit, and the absolute necessity of abiding in Christ as expressed in the vine and branches metaphor.

Jesus Washes Disciples' Feet and Teaches Servant Leadership

Jesus demonstrates radical servant leadership by washing His disciples' feet, telling them "If I then, your Lord and teacher, have washed your feet, you also ought to wash one another's feet."

Peter initially resists ("You shall never wash my feet") but Jesus responds "If I do not wash you, you have no part in me," showing the necessity of receiving Christ's service.

The teaching establishes that "a servant is not greater than his master" and "I have given you an example, that you also should do as I have done to you."

The Hidden Betrayal of Judas and Peter's Overconfidence

When Jesus announces "one of you will betray me," the disciples are completely uncertain who it could be despite living together for 2-3 years, revealing Judas's secret double life.

Father Mike reflects that Judas was trusted with the money box and responsibilities, yet none suspected his hidden intentions - highlighting the danger of trying to live the Christian life in isolation.

Peter declares "I will lay down my life for you" but Jesus prophesies "the cock will not crow till you have denied me three times," revealing Peter's overconfidence and hidden weakness.

Jesus as the Way and Promise of the Holy Spirit

Jesus makes the exclusive claim "I am the way, and the truth, and the life. No one comes to the Father but by me" when Thomas asks about knowing the way.

Jesus promises "another consoler" (the Holy Spirit), which Father Mike notes means Jesus Himself is the first consoler - representing the Father's two arms embracing us.

The Holy Spirit will "teach you all things and bring to your remembrance all that I have said to you" and provide lasting peace "not as the world gives."

The Vine and Branches: Absolute Dependence on Christ

Jesus declares "I am the vine, you are the branches" and emphasizes "apart from me, you can do nothing" - not less, but literally nothing according to Father Mike's emphasis.

The command to "abide in me, and I in you" is essential for bearing fruit, with branches that don't abide being "cast forth as a branch and withers."

Jesus transitions from calling them servants to friends: "I have called you friends, for all that I have heard from my Father I have made known to you."

Wisdom from Proverbs: Learning Diligence from Ants

The Bible teaches "Go to the ant, O sluggard, consider her ways and be wise" - the ant prepares food in summer and gathers sustenance without supervision.

The warning against laziness is stark: "A little sleep, a little slumber, a little folding of the hands to rest, and poverty will come upon you like a vagabond."